Struggling Matlock are frustrated by Rolleston

Matlock batsman Andrew Paulett strikes out during the match with Rolleston.

Published:17:14Wednesday 24 June 2015

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Matlock were beaten at Causeway Lane by Rolleston on Saturday as the visitors claimed victory by four wickets.

Rolleston won the toss and elected to bowl on a wicket that looked like it would suit their seam attack, not least with the heavy clouds above which promised good bowling conditions.

Matlock, however, started in a more stubborn manner than Rolleston had hoped. Although not scoring quickly, Johnny Ford and Mark Burton looked solid and dispatched any loose deliveries.

It wasn’t until Ford was caught behind for 14 that the away side’s spirit lifted. They were able to use this to their advantage as Burton was caught at gully shortly after for 22.

Rolleston’s lifted spirits however were short lasted as the in-form Drew Mullaney and new signing Andrew Paulett took the openers’ place at the crease. The pair played confidently and Paulett impressed as he began to build confidence and knock the ball around.

Mullaney was finally dismissed for 27 but Paulett continued passed his half century and eventually reached 78 before being bowled by Dent. This left Rob Lowe to come and do what he does best with his innings of 41 pushing Matlock’s total to 223 after 50 overs.

Rolleston were certainly not expecting a target like that to chase and they were even more concerned when Paulett took a one-handed slip catch to remove opener Liversage without scoring.

Zaroob however had other ideas as he raced to 22 before being struck on the hand by the lively Chris Pemberton and was forced to retire. Mullaney then caught opener Marshall with another stunning catch, Ed Lander then taking a sharp slip chance to reduce the visitors to 63-4.

At that point 223 looked to be a long way away but Richard Green stepped up with a great innings, ending unbeaten on 75. With some help from Alex Britton who also managed a half century, Rolleston chased down Matlock’s target with the loss of six wickets, Pemberton claiming 3-72.

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